Somewhat expected, the Toronto Maple Leafs went with the big centreman Frederick Gauthier of the Rimouski Oceanic with the 21st overall pick. Gauthier had been given to the Leafs in several mock drafts—either him or Kerby Rychel—as the Maple Leafs continue the theme of drafting size rather than skill among forwards.

The pick isn't *awful*, but it is a *safe* pick. Pierre McGuire stated the obvious when he suggested that Gauthier will never be like Ron Francis. It's not a reach, as Gauthier was ranked No. 20 in our NHL Numbers consensus picks, but considering a skilled forward like Hunter Shinkaruk had fallen to the Leafs spot, I can understand if fans feel the team didn't try to hit a home run.

Nonis suggested to James Duthie that there were several centres in the draft that the team was looking at, and it's obvious that the team had a need at forward.

Here is stats guy Rob Pettapiece on Gauthier, breaking down quality of competition and 5-on-5 statistics:

It's amazing to me that so many hockey fans are able to predict the future for 18 year old hockey players. If, in fact, the Leafs are committed to keeping and developing their prospects, who knows where Frederick Gauthier ends up? It certainly sounds as though he can become a solid NHL player. Could we all just give him a chance please?
There's an easy way to load up on "can't miss" prospects. Just ask the Edmonton Oilers. Not sure that Leaf Nation would be willing to go that route.
Trades, anyone?

Any pick at 21 is going to be a bit of a gamble but for once I'd like to see the Leafs take a chance on a highly skilled player with 1st line upside. Seems like they prefer really big guys who might make great third liners one day.

I guess if they keep drafting guys like this they'll get lucky one day and come up with a 230 lb top six guy. Maybe.